To the citizens of the great state of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Legislature:

It is my pleasure to submit for your consideration the FY‐2013 executive budget. The plan I have put forward is a responsible budget that accomplishes the goals of reducing the tax burden on Oklahoma citizens, supporting core government functions, holding the line on spending and demanding a more efficient and effective state government.

The tax proposal submitted within this budget, titled the “Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act,” provides immediate tax relief while setting the state on a course to completely eliminate the personal income tax. It is a bold, game‐changing plan that will allow Oklahomans to keep more of their hard earned money, stimulate job growth and make Oklahoma a more attractive place to locate or expand businesses. It is also a responsible plan that benefits Oklahomans in all income tax brackets and that recognizes the need to adequately fund state services.

Addressing our budget needs for FY‐2013 is only part of the important task that lies before us. Continuing to improve our educational institutions and to build a more highly skilled, better educated workforce will be essential to maintaining Oklahoma’s impressive economic growth in years to come.

Included also in this budget are proposals to invest in major improvements in Oklahoma’s highway transportation system, currently ranked as one of the worst in the nation. By repairing all currently known structurally deficient highway bridges, Oklahoma can become a leader in transportation, and thus further stimulate job growth and
economic development.

Energy will also continue to be a priority in Oklahoma, as it has always been. While Oklahoma is destined to remain a leader in production, energy efficiency is an area that requires major improvement. This document outlines key steps that can be taken to increase efficiency and save taxpayer dollars.

Finally, Oklahoma’s poor health indicators continue to generate personal tragedy while dragging down the state’s economy. Several key programs to increase access to care and to reward healthy life choices are included in this year’s budget.

I ask the Legislature and the Citizens of Oklahoma to come together in support of this agenda. If we do so, I am certain we can rise above the current budget struggles and emerge as a stronger, healthier state.

Sincerely,

Governor Mary Fallin

Click here to view previous budgets and other information from the Office of State Finance.